Australian food science and technology professionals join the fight against hunger

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June 25, 2018

The Australian Institute of Food Science and Technology (AIFST) has joined forces with Foodbank to help address the rising issue of food insecurity in Australia at the same time as tackling food waste.

AIFST Managing Director, Fiona Fleming said the opportunity to be part of the Foodbank supporter network is a natural fit for the organisation. “It is a distressing fact that in this country at some point each year over 3.6 million Australians are in crisis, dealing with the anguish and despair of not knowing where the next meal is coming from for themselves and their families”.

“It’s a predicament largely hidden by stigma and shame, but the reality is we’re all likely to know someone who is affected. It’s not just people on the street but people in your street.”

Foodbank works collaboratively with the entire Australian food and retail sector and throughout the supply chain to source and distribute food to front line charities around the country.

To mark the new partnership, AIFST has committed to donating $25 to Foodbank for every new member to join the organisation from June 20 through to September 3, 2018. Each $25 donation will be turned into $200 worth of food distributed to people in need and will contribute to the 67 million meals a year Foodbank provides to over 2,400 charities and 1,750 schools around the country.

To put the spotlight on what AIFST members can do to tackle hunger in Australia, a new award will be presented at the Convention in Melbourne. AIFST is looking to name its first ‘Hunger Hero’ – somebody who has gone above and beyond to tackle food insecurity. Whether it’s championing a new initiative within their company or volunteering their time and expertise in the community, AIFST wants to recognise an individual’s contribution and hold it up as an inspiration to others. Further details of the award will be available on the AIFST website.

Foodbank will provide opportunities for AIFST members to assist with projects and to volunteer their time in assisting with Foodbank operations.

Brianna Casey, CEO of Foodbank Australia Limited said: “It is thanks to the support of the Australian food and grocery industry that we achieve what we do, which is why we’re so happy to partner with AIFST. The Institute’s membership is made up of key people within the industry who have the potential every day to make a difference in the success of our industry relationships.”

About the 2018 AIFST Convention

For full details on the Convention program and partnership opportunities please visit the convention website.